Top 20 Tourist Spots in the Philippines Every Traveler Must Visit

When someone mentions the Philippines, one can’t help but think of pristine beaches. Because after being recognized as the world’s best island several times already, how can you not? But it’s not just about beaches. With over 7,000 islands, there’s a perfect tourist spot in the Philippines that will satisfy every traveler’s wanderlust.
20 Most Loved Philippine Attractions by Travelers
From Luzon and Visayas to Mindanao, we’ve rounded up all the most beautiful Philippine attractions that won’t fail to impress you.
- Palawan
- Batanes
- Boracay
- Cebu
- Siargao
- Ifugao
- Camiguin
- Ilocos
- Manila
- Bohol
- Pampanga
- Tagaytay
- Batangas
- Rizal
- Laguna
- Zamboanga
- Sagada
- Baler
- Siquijor
- Bacolod
Read this travel guide to help you find the perfect tourist spot in the Philippines for an unforgettable trip.
20. Bacolod
The capital of Negros Occidental, also known as the City of Smiles, is famous for its MassKara Festival, the delicious cuisine, hospitable locals, and the scenic Bacolod tourist spots.
This city offers a rich culture and history with a mix of urban life that never fails to amaze its visitors.
Suggested article: Top 8 Bacolod Tourist Spots Every Traveler Must Not Miss
Bacolod Tourist Spots:
The Ruins
Negros Museum
Balay Negrense
Mambukal Mountain Resort
San Sebastian Cathedral
Bernardino Jalandoni Museum
Pulang Tubig Falls
Best time to visit: During March to May (dry season) and October for the MassKara Festival.
How to get there: From Manila, book a direct flight bound for Bacolod.
19. Siquijor
Magic and mystery come to mind when someone hears Siquijor. While some stories could be true, the only magic you should look forward to is the one brought by the enchanting Siquijor tourist spots that will make you want to walk straight into a beautiful trap.
It is a small island province located in the Central Visayas region oozing with pristine beaches, beautiful diving spots, waterfalls, and a cave. This tourist destination in the Philippines used to be known as the Island of Fire enveloped by mystic traditions such as witchcraft, healing, spiritual rituals.
Must-read: 10 Siquijor Tourist Spots That’ll Make You Walk Straight Into A Beautiful Trap
Siquijor Tourist Spots:
Cambugahay Falls
Paliton Beach
Cantabon Cave
Old Enchanted Balete Tree
Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary
Salagdoong Beach
San Juan Beach
Cang-isok House
Sandugan Beach
St. Francis of Assisi Church
Best time to visit: March to May (dry season)
How to get there: From Manila, you can book a flight to Dumaguete. Once in Dumaguete, hire a tricycle or motorcycle to take you to the port. Upon arrival at the port, ride a ferry bound for Siquijor.
18. Baler
Believed to be the birthplace of surfing in the Philippines, Baler in Aurora Province is getting the attention not just of local travelers but also foreigners. While Baler is popular for its sensational waves, surfing isn’t the only thing you can do in this town. You’ll surely find the perfect Baler tourist spot that will charm you.
Related article: Top Baler Surfing Spots You Need to Check Out to Catch Some Waves
Baler Tourist Spots:
Sabang Beach
Dicasalarin Cove
Diguisit Beach
Museo de Baler
Balete Park and Millennium Tree
Ermita Hill
Baler Town Plaza
Baler Catholic Church
Ditumabo Falls
Doña Aurora’s House
Zabali Hanging Bridge
Best time to visit: What’s great about surfing in Baler is that waves are present all year but the best Baler surfing season is from September to February.
How to get there: From Manila, ride the Joy Bus that will take you directly to Baler. You can also ride the Victory Liner bound for Cabanatuan but you’ll have to transfer to another bus to reach Baler. Travel time to Baler is 5 to 6 hours.
17. Sagada
Sagada, home to spectacular views and breathtaking natural wonders, is one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines, especially for backpackers.
It’s also a popular soul-searching destination as the place offers sunny but cool weather, lush natural landscapes, and a sea of clouds that will let you think whether you’re still on Earth. This is where you’ll see the famous historical and mysterious hanging coffins, scenic and calming mountain valleys, rice terraces, limestone caves, stunning waterfalls, and friendly Igorots that let people discover its rich culture and traditions preserved over time.
Suggested article: Sagada Philippines: A First-Timer’s Guide to Traveling Sagada
Sagada Tourist Spots:
Echo Valley Hanging Coffins
Sagada Rice Terraces
Bomod-ok Falls
Bokong Falls
Sumaguing Cave
Lumiang Cave
Marlboro Hills
Mt. Kiltepan Viewpoint
Blue Soil Hills
Pongas Falls
Best time to visit: During the wet season (November to February) where you can expect temperatures to be as low as 4°C.
How to get there: From Manila, you can ride a bus bound for Baguio that will take about 4 to 6 hours of travel time. Upon arrival in Baguio, you will have to go to the bus terminal and ride the GL Trans Bus bound for Sagada. From there, it will take another 5 to 6 hours to reach Sagada.
Another option is you can take the bus in Sampaloc, Manila bound for Banaue that takes 9 hours of travel time. Upon arrival in Banaue, take the 3 to 4-hour jeepney ride to the Sagada tourist spot you’re visiting.
Overall, travel time can take around 11 to 13 hours.
16. Zamboanga
The Philippines is not just all white and cream-colored beaches. In case you don’t know, Zamboanga boasts of its pink sand beach that definitely makes a perfect spot for Instagram snaps. This offbeat tourist spot in Mindanao has a lot of beautiful places waiting to be discovered.
Zamboanga Tourist Spots:
Merloquet Falls
Paseo del Mar
Pink Beach Zamboanga
Yakan Weaving Village
Pasonanca Park
Great Santa Cruz Island
Bayangan Island
Tagbilat Falls
Rizal Shrine
Best time to visit: March to May (dry season)
How to get there: From Manila, you can book a flight or ride a ferry bound for Zamboanga City.
15. Laguna
Because of its proximity to Manila, Laguna has become one of the favorite go-to destinations for weekend travelers. Just two to three hours away from Manila, you can already have your much-deserved staycation in Laguna! This province is home to so many natural wonders from waterfalls to hot springs. With this, any Laguna tourist spot is a no-fail.
Read also: 12 Fun Things to Do in Laguna for an Epic Adventure
Laguna Tourist Spots:
Seven Lakes
Lake Pandin
Bato Springs
Dampalit falls
Mt. Makiling
Enchanted Kingdom
Nuvali Park
Rizal Shrine
Republic Wakepark
Pagsanjan Falls
Hidden Valley Springs
Hulugan Falls
Best time to visit: March to May (dry season)
How to get there: From Manila, you can take a bus from Pasay, Cubao, or Buendia bound for Calamba or Santa Cruz. The travel time from Manila to Laguna is around 2 to 3 hours.
14. Rizal
When planning for a quick getaway, our usual go-to destinations are Tagaytay and Batangas. But Rizal Province has equally stunning places that are worth the visit, too. In fact, some of the Rizal tourist spots are historical and have been featured in many travel shows and magazines already! This tourist spot in Luzon will give you the adventure of a lifetime.
Must-read: 10 Must-See Rizal Tourist Spots for an Amazing Adventure
Rizal Tourist Spots:
Hinulugang Taktak
Pinto Art Museum
Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs
Masungi Georeserve
Daranak Falls
Batlag Falls
Tinipak River
Cloud 9 Antipolo
Pililla Wind Farm
Treasure Mountain
Best time to visit: All year
How to get there: From EDSA Starmall or Megamall in Mandaluyong, ride a van or jeep bound for Tanay. It will pass through different towns of Rizal like Antipolo, Teresa, Morong, Baras, and Tanay. This is the easiest and cheapest way on how to go to Tanay Rizal. For vans, the fare is PHP 80 while PHP 56 for jeeps.
13. Batangas
Batangas’ stunning land and seascapes have long been enticing travelers to experience its beauty firsthand. It is a default destination for short and spontaneous getaways because it’s just two hours away from Manila. With many Batangas tourist spots to check out—from beaches, coves, and mountains—travelers will never get bored in this province.
Known for its iconic dive spots and stunning beaches, there is more to Batangas than a dose of vitamin sea. From the relaxing activities to heart-pumping things to do in Batangas, the province surely has a lot to offer for all types of travelers.
What’s even better is that Batangas is just two hours away from Manila, perfect for city dwellers in need of a quick getaway.
Related article: 10 Batangas Tourist Spots Perfect for Quick Getaways
Batangas Tourist Spots:
Fortune Island
Laiya Beach
Anilao
Masasa Beach
Matabungkay Beach
Sepoc Beach
Caleruega Chapel
Mt. Batulao
Malabrigo Lighthouse
Cape Santiago Lighthouse
Best time to visit: All year
How to get there: From Manila, Pasay, or Cubao, you can ride a bus or van bound for Batangas. Make sure to choose the right bus or van depending on your destination.
12. Tagaytay
Whether you’re on for an adventure or just want a quick escape from the busy city life, Tagaytay never fails to satisfy the traveler in you. With many Tagaytay tourist spots to see, yummy dishes to try, and fun experiences not to miss out on while enjoying the cool weather, you will definitely have the vacation you’ve been looking for.
That’s why it’s no wonder that Tagaytay is a favorite tourist spot in Luzon.
Must-read: The Complete Guide For A Staycation in Tagaytay
Tagaytay Tourist Spots:
Taal Volcano and Lake
Picnic Grove
People’s Park in the Sky
Sky Ranch
Museo Orlina
Puzzle Mansion
Sonya’s Garden
Mahogany Beef Market
Paradizoo
Tierra de Maria
Nurture Wellness Village
Dreamland Arts & Crafts Cafe
Best time to visit: All year
How to get there: From Manila, Pasay, or Cubao, ride a bus bound for Nasugbu and tell the driver to drop you off in Tagaytay. There are also some buses that travel to Tagaytay directly.
11. Pampanga
If there’s something that Pampanga is known for, it’s their heavenly Kapampangan dishes that never fails to satisfy foodies. While being the Culinary Capital of the Philippines is enough to convince us to go there, you must also discover the best Pampanga tourist spot.
What’s even better is that Pampanga to Manila is just two hours away so it’s very accessible especially if you’re craving for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Suggested read: 10 Best Pampanga Tourist Spots Not to Miss for a Fun-Filled Trip
Pampanga Tourist Spots:
Mt. Pinatubo
Sandbox
Mt. Arayat National Park
Sky Ranch
Aqua Planet
Nayong Pilipino
Clark Museum and 4D Theatre
Zoocobia Fun Zoo
Pradera Verde
Dinosaurs Island
Best time to visit: March to May (dry season)
How to get there: Ride a bus bound for Olongapo and tell the driver to drop you off at San Fernando, Pampanga. You can also ride a Point-to-Point (P2P) bus from NAIA, Makati, Ortigas, and SM North Edsa bound for Pampanga but this is more expensive than the regular buses.
10. Bohol
Home to the iconic Chocolate Hills and the world’s smallest primates, Bohol is one of the most beautiful destinations in the Philippines. With its stunning Bohol tourist spots, it’s no wonder that travelers and locals alike couldn’t help but be amazed.
From historic sites and pristine beaches to waterfalls and a majestic cave, Bohol never fails to stun its visitors.
Must-read: Bohol Itinerary: Best Places to Visit and Budget Guide All in One
Bohol Tourist Spots:
Panglao Island
Chocolate Hills
Hinagdanan Cave
Loboc River
Bamboo Hanging Bridge
Man-Made Forest
Anda Beach
Blood Compact Shrine
Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary
Danao Adventure Park
Balicasag Island
Baclayon Church
Dimiao Twin Waterfalls
Alona Beach
The Mirror of the World
Best time to visit: March to May (dry season)
How to get there: From Manila, book a direct flight bound for Bohol. If you’re coming from Cebu, just take a ferry to Bohol.
9. Manila
The city of Manila is a place that is both old and modern. With its rich history, almost all areas have become great tourist spots in Manila that everyone wants to visit. From the preserved architecture brought by Spanish colonialism to outstanding Filipino culture, Manila has everything you’d ask for!
Related article: 8 Amazing Tourist Spots in Manila That You Can Visit for Free
Manila Tourist Spots:
Intramuros
Escolta
National Museum of the Philippines
Rizal Park
Manila Baywalk
San Agustin Church
Manila Cathedral
Fort Santiago
Manila Ocean Park
Dessert Museum
Binondo
Best time to visit: All year
How to get there: From NAIA or other parts of Metro Manila, you can ride a bus, van or jeep going to Cubao and other parts of Manila. If you want a hassle-free commute, just book a Grab Car or taxi.
8. Ilocos
Visiting Ilocos is like traveling back in time because of its preserved Spanish Colonial town that even the world considers as one of the best. Aside from the magnificent Vigan tourist spots, what makes this tourist destination in the Philippines well-loved is its historical and cultural significance that feeds not just wanderlust but also a traveler’s mind and soul.
Related article: Calle Crisologo: Walking Through A Tale of War and Love
Ilocos Tourist Spots:
Paoay Church
Calle Crisologo
Syquia Mansion Museum
RG Jar Factory
Bantay Church Bell Tower
Baluarte Resort
Vigan Cathedral
Crisologo Museum
Plaza Salcedo
Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone
Mindoro Beach of Vigan
Malacañang of the North
Tirad Pass
Pagudpud Beach
Best time to visit: March to May (dry season)
How to get there: You can either take a plane for faster travel or a bus. But the cheapest way to travel to Ilocos Province is by bus. Some of the buses that have direct trips daily are Partas, Dominion Bus Lines, Viron Transit, and St. Joseph/Aniceto Transit, while Philippine Rabbit Bus Line, Fariñas, Maria de Leon, Florida, Baliwag, and RCJ Transit have regular trips that pass by Vigan via the Manila-Laoag route.
7. Camiguin
Camiguin, an island-province in Northern Mindanao, was once an obscure location but now is among the top tourist destinations in the Philippines. With so many Instagrammable Camiguin tourist spots, the Island Born of Fire becomes a favorite travel destination.
From the pristine Camiguin Island tourist spots and jaw-dropping waterfalls to the glorious underwater world and historic structures from the Spanish colonial era, Camiguin definitely makes up the ultimate feed goal that every ‘grammer aims for!
Suggested article: Camiguin Island: A Travel Guide to the Island Born of Fire
Camiguin Tourist Spots:
White Island Camiguin
Mantigue Island Nature Park
Sunken Cemetery
Tuasan Falls
Katibawasan Falls
Guiob Church Ruins
Burias Shoal
Sto. Niño Cold Spring
Soda Water Swimming Pool
Mt. Hibok-Hibok
Ardent Hot Spring
Camiguin Aviation
Taguines Lagoon
Treasures Camiguin
Tungatok Viewdeck
Best time to visit: March to May (dry season)
How to get there: As of writing, there is no direct flight from Manila to Camiguin. Cagayan de Oro City is the gateway to Camiguin. What you can do is book a flight from Manila to CDO. From CDO to Camiguin, the travel time is approximately over two hours including the land and sea travel.
6. Ifugao
One of the most famous Philippine attractions is Ifugao Province where you’ll find the UNESCO World Heritage Site Banaue Rice Terraces. But it’s not just the Banaue Rice Terraces you should look forward to because there are many other places in Ifugao that will teach you the traditional way of life and culture.
Ifugao Tourist Spots:
Banaue Rice Terraces
Banaue Viewpoint
Batad Rice Terraces
Hungduan Rice Terraces
Bangaan Rice Terraces
Hapao Rice Terraces
Tappiya Falls
Hanging Bridge
Bogyah Hot Spring
Best time to visit: April to June
How to get there: From Manila, ride a bus bound for Banaue. Travel time takes around 9 hours
5. Siargao
Other than Siargao surfing, you’ll likely fall for this teardrop-shaped island’s pristine white beaches, coconut woodlands, the clearest waters you’ve ever seen, and the sensational towering waves, as soon as you set your foot there.
What makes Siargao tourist spots an ideal travel destination is that it has remained unspoiled, remote, sparsely developed, and still relatively under the radar, making it even more appealing to travelers who are craving natural beauty and a slower pace. This tourist spot in Mindanao will surely captivate your heart.
Must-read: Siargao Travel Guide: What Every First-Timer Should Know Before Going to Siargao
Siargao Tourist Spots:
Guyam Island
Naked Island
Daku Island
Magpupungko Rock Pools
Coconut Street
Cloud 9
Sugba Lagoon
Maasin River
Best time to visit: March to May; October to November
How to get there: From Manila, you can book a flight or board a ferry bound for Siargao.
4. Cebu
Cebu is a melting pot for food, arts, culture, religion, and island life in the Philippines. The province does not disappoint its visitors with its amazingly beautiful Cebu tourist spots and fun activities to try.
Dubbed as the Queen City of the South, Cebu offers a unique travel experience as it is a place where city and paradise meet.
Related article: Cebu Itinerary Guide: Best Places to Go & Must-Try Activities
Cebu Tourist Spots:
Oslob
Bantayan Island
Malapascua Island
Kawasan Falls
Simala Shrine
Temple of Leah
Sirao Flower Garden
Pescador Island
Magellan’s Cross
Fort San Pedro
Best time to visit: January (for Sinulog Festival); March to May (dry season)
How to get there: From Manila, book a direct flight going to Cebu.
3. Boracay
Famous for its oh-so-fine white sand beaches, amazing nightlife, and fun water activities, Boracay is the best tourist spot in the Philippines to enjoy all the things you want in one place. In fact, it’s always on the list of the world’s most beautiful islands by international travel magazines. Whether you’re just aiming to get a tan at the world-famous beach or planning to try the heart-pounding water activities, Boracay tourist spots will give you everything you need.
Suggested read: Travel Hacks: Guide to Boracay Budget Trip Under PHP 8000
Boracay Tourist Spots:
White Beach
Crystal Cove Island
Bulabog Beach
Diniwid Beach
Puka Shell Beach
D’Mall
Ariel’s Point
Mount Luho
Ilig-Iligan Beach
Willy’s Rock
Best time to visit: March to May (dry season)
How to get there: From Manila, book a direct flight going to Caticlan or Kalibo, Aklan. Upon arrival at the airport, you must ride a ferry bound for Boracay.
2. Batanes
Breathtaking views, fascinating and rich culture, and kind locals—these pretty much sums up why travelers dream of visiting Batanes. This province may be the smallest in the Philippines but it sure has a lot to offer when it comes to majestic scenery thanks to the jaw-dropping Batanes tourist spots.
Related article: 13 Mind-Blowing Facts About Batanes You Must Haven’t Heard of Yet
Batanes Tourist Spots:
Racuh A Payaman (Marlboro Country)
Alapad Hill and Rock Formation
Basco Lighthouse
Tayid Lighthouse
Honesty Coffee Shop
Morong Beach
Valugan Boulder Beach
House of Dakay
Savidug Stone Houses
Mt. Carmel Chapel
Vayang Rolling Hills
Chawa View Deck
Best time to visit: March to May (dry season); June (for Batanes Day)
How to get there:
1. Palawan
Topping our list of the most beautiful tourist spots in the Philippines is none other than Palawan.
With the undeniable beauty of Palawan, it has already become a regular on the list of the world’s best islands of international travel magazines. Of course, this doesn’t come as a surprise. From the clear blue-green waters of lagoons and colorful reefs to pristine white beaches, what more can you ask for? The Palawan tourist spot has been the talk of the town, the world rather, because of its magnificent charm.
Suggested article: The Paradise on Earth: Glorious Palawan Tourist Spot That Will Make You Fall In-Love With Nature
Puerto Princesa Tourist Spots:
Puerto Princesa Underground River
Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center
Baker’s Hill
Honda Bay
Cowrie Island
El Nido Beaches:
Hidden Beach
Nacpan Beach
Twin Beach
Marimegmeg Beach
Las Cabañas Beach
Coron Tourist Spots:
Kayangan Lake
Twin Lagoons
Barracuda Lake
Malcapuya Island
Siete Pecados Marine Park
Mt. Tapyas
Calauit Island Safari
Best time to visit: March to May (dry season)
How to get there: From Manila, there are flights that travel directly to all parts of Palawan but for El Nido, it’s more expensive.
Finding the best tourist spot in the Philippines is easy but leaving them is hard. With their unique features, interesting stories about them, and the friendly locals who take good care to preserve its beauty, a trip to the Philippines will surely be one for the books.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tourist Spot in the Philippines
Q: What is the best tourist spot in the Philippines?
A: From Luzon and Visayas to Mindanao, here are the most beautiful Philippines tourist attractions that won’t fail to impress you.
- Palawan
- Batanes
- Boracay
- Cebu
- Siargao
- Ifugao
- Camiguin
- Ilocos
- Manila
- Bohol
- Pampanga
- Tagaytay
- Batangas
- Rizal
- Laguna
- Zamboanga
- Sagada
- Baler
- Siquijor
- Bacolod
Q: What is the most beautiful tourist spot in Luzon?
A: Luzon is full of beautiful places to visit. Among these are:
- Intramuros
- Mt. Kiltepan Viewpoint
- Anawangin Cove
- Mayon Volcano
- Taal Volcano
- Tinipak River
- Mt. Pinatubo
- Puerto Princesa Underground River
- Racuh A Payaman
- Big Lagoon
- Small Lagoon
- Kayangan Lake
- Banaue Rice Terraces
Q: Why is the Philippines the best tourist attraction destination?
A: The Philippines is a great place to travel to because of its pristine islands that have been recognized as the world’s best by international travel magazines; its historical sites; delicious cuisine; and of course, the hospitable locals.
Q: What is the famous food in the Philippines?
A: After exploring the Philippines tourist attractions, make sure to try some of the best and most popular Filipino food:
- Adobo
- Sinigang
- Kare-Kare
- Sisig
- Lechon
- Bulalo
- Kansi
- Chicken Inasal
- Halo-Halo
- Suman
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